SUMO/ Yokozuna Harumafuji says ‘sorry,’ retires after assault

Retiring yokozuna Harumafuji apologized on Nov. 29 for beating and injuring fellow wrestler Takanoiwa in Tottori during a drinking outing on a circuit tour in October, calling his actions "excessive."

“As a yokozuna, I thought his manners were not good. I thought it was his superiors’ duty to rectify the (inappropriate) manners. But while I meant to scold him, I injured him, caused a stir in society and gave troubles to my fans and the Japan Sumo Association. My actions were excessive,” Harumafuji said in a news conference in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Prefecture.

“I’m really sorry for people who have supported me,” he added.

Harumafuji, who belonged to the Isegahama stable, submitted a letter of retirement to the JSA earlier in the day. The letter was accepted.

Harumafuji, 33, and Takanoiwa, 27, a maegashira No. 8, are both from Mongolia.

A supporter of the Isegahama stable revealed that Harumafuji had called around 1 a.m. on Nov. 29 and indicated his intent to retire.